White Bean and Ham Soup

Serves 12

1 lb of white beans - Canellini or Great Northern

2 quarts chicken stock

2 lbs of ham diced

1 cup of diced onions

1 cup chopped celery

2/3 cup chopped carrots

2 cloves garlic minced

Louisiana hot sauce

1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper

Soak the beans in at least 2 quarts of cold water for about 2 hrs. Drain the water.

Put the ham shank pieces in a large pot and cover with chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and simmer for about an hour. Add the chopped vegetables and beans. Cook for another hour, until the vegetables are soft and the ham is tender. Add several drops of hot sauce to taste, thyme, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.

White Bean and Ham Soup